Catch Flintoff’s boxing debut

His fight has been panned across the UK and elsewhere, but Freddie Flintoff doesn’t care.

“If I was looking for a publicity stunt I’d have picked something easier,” the former England cricket hero said of his professional debut, taking place in Manchester on Friday. “There has been criticism of things I’ve done in the past. I’m just getting my head down and doing the best I can.”

The fight will be broadcast live on SuperSport 5 at 9pm.

Flintoff will fight American Richard Dawson, who has two wins in as many bouts, in a four-rounder that has people talking – not all for the right reasons.

Promoter Frank Warren has described the fight as “car crash TV”, while another promoter, Frank Maloney, has labelled it “a scandal”.

Flintoff, who played 79 tests for England, has been training under former WBA featherweight champion, Barry McGuigan, and looks in superb shape for his debut.

McGuigan dismissed the critics. “To say it cheapens boxing is a complete and utter load of nonsense. Freddie has worked his nuts off and we’re promoting the sport in a very positive way.”

Also on Friday, British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion David Price will defend his titles against veteran Matt Skelton in a bout to be broadcast live from Liverpool on SS5. The tournament will be broadcast from 9.30pm.

Price is one of the world’s best young heavyweights. As big as the Klitschko brothers, he packs a brutal punch and moves exceptionally well for a man who weighs in excess of 110kg.